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* The four Republican gubernatorial candidates debate tonight at 7. You can watch the live stream here…
posted by Rich Miller
Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 4:33 pm
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(Clearing schedule, ordering Chinese, waiting for Raunerbots)
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 4:48 pm
Thanks for the free feed–awfully generous of you…but 1st, must first go face some ZEro degree Wind Chills and pick up a cup of java!!
Comment by Just The Way It Is One Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 5:02 pm
There is going to be a BIG ‘ol pink elephant in that room tonight, people can pretend it is not there, but it is..and it will not go away.
Comment by PinkElephant Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 5:03 pm
It will be interesting to see what they all say about the nursing home horrors.
I think the best strategy would be for Rutherford, Dillard and Brady to gang up on Rauner and be nice to each other. It would make the point that they don’t really consider him a Republican.
In fact, here’s a laugh line for nothin, guys —
“Ronald Reagan said the 11th commandment was, `Thou shalt not speak ill of another Republican.’ But since you voted in the Democratic primary in 2006 and have made substantial donations to the DNC, the DCCC and RAHM EMANUEL, I guess it’s okay.”
Comment by Soccermom Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 5:17 pm
Soccermom, you forgot to call Rauner a RINO.
Comment by DuPage Rep Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 5:46 pm
I just listened to an NPR show on scandal and corruption that I thought might be interesting. Managed to get half-way through it. Absolutely surreal.
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 5:53 pm
- DuPage Rep -,
“RIN…” is toxic. Please, learn.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 5:55 pm
@ dupage
I’m not sure Rino’s pull dem ballots but if the Carhartt fits wear it.
Comment by Farker Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 5:58 pm
Willy, sounds good but I’m having pizza.
Comment by Arthur Andersen Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 6:05 pm
Here is a new poll showing strong support for a minimum wage increase and government intervention to reduce income inequality. The candidates should be aware of this, and of how independents answered the questions.
http://www.people-press.org/2014/01/23/most-see-inequality-growing-but-partisans-differ-over-solutions/
Comment by Grandson of Man Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 6:09 pm
Yeah, changing it up. Chinese, out if the “Box”, feet up, seeing if a flannel shirt makes it on stage… No adult beverage, unless a drinking game breaks out, lol
- Soccermom - is “on it”, no surprise, agree, thousand percent. Hope they hear you, they haven’t realty heard me too often, but they listen, so you may be the right person.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 6:10 pm
Rauner isn’t a Republican, or a Democrat, or an Independent.
He’s a cheap hustler, a pay-to-play hack who’s in it for the score.
By cheap, I don’t mean he doesn’t score big, I mean that his methods are base. He’s a parasite on the body politic, like Stu Levine.
At least Levine has some remorse now.
By the way, anyone going up to The Range to talk to Stu about Rauner? I’m sure he has a tale to tell.
After years of buying politicians, Rauner now invests in himself. He has the money. Now he wants the bodyguards. He wants the police escort. He wants TV yakkers hanging on his every word. He’s an egomaniac.
He wants the perks money can’t buy.
I thought the Illinois GOP establishment prostituted itself when it brought in Alan Keyes.
The fact that the money boys are all-in on Rauner, and have rejected three bedrock Republicans in Dillard, Brady, and Rutherford, just goes to show you how low these guys can go.
Shame on you.
For crying out loud, Oberweis and Rauner representing the Illinois Republican Party! Sweet Jesus on the cross, that’s enough.
Let’s get real, let’s get Main Street and Midwestern and enough with these hustlers!
Comment by wordslinger Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 6:12 pm
Are we there yet?!!!!
;)
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 6:27 pm
Home. Logged in and see that I get to watch debate with CapFax political pros. A real public service.
Comment by Samurai Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 6:34 pm
As “Flounder” said just before the fun started, “Oh, Boy!”
Comment by Arthur Andersen Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 6:46 pm
I might put on my Carhartt, just to get into the mood.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 6:49 pm
What beats debates while washing dishes & fixing tomorrow’s lunch?
Comment by Hans Sanity Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 6:51 pm
Yea! Bruce wore a tie. The Carhartt would have be nice too
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:02 pm
Why isn’t Rich on the panel?
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:04 pm
the announcer guy has his tongue tied, feel bad for him.
Comment by PoolGuy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:04 pm
Brady opens…stealing “governors in jail”, stealing Rauner’s thunder?
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:05 pm
Rutherford - pizza, Avanti’s, getting hungier
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:06 pm
Love to see how Rauner will improve education while cutting taxes.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:08 pm
Im not a politician but I’m running as one now. ugh
Comment by PoolGuy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:08 pm
Rauner - Illinois “use to be”, and talking points, politicians, businessman - 4 points…on script
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:08 pm
Dillard - economics, resources, bio, no Edgar…yet
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:10 pm
Willy-pizza not here, tell me about it!
Score at end of opening statements:
Rauner up-he said something concrete about what he wants to do.
Comment by Arthur Andersen Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:10 pm
Jak with the hardball question!
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:10 pm
Rutherford - no stay of income tax, blames Quinn
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:13 pm
Rauner’s has taken the best from Romney in the way he answers questions. Point by point answers make it seem like he is being more specific with his answers.
Comment by Anon Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:14 pm
Rauner: report says half of Medicaid enrollees are unqualified
Where is he getting this?
Comment by Precinct Captain Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:14 pm
Rauner - pensions, change pensions going forward, not back..union bosses, pay & work rules need to be looked at.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:14 pm
Was it me or was this out of focus for a while?
Comment by 47th Ward Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:15 pm
Dillard - Yikes, goes 3rd person, no pay for legislators unless balance budget, mentions COS, but tuned out after pay witholding
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:16 pm
Do a shot… Then it stays out of focus
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:16 pm
What would you cut? List three things:
Dan - did not say
Bruce - pensions, medicade (incorrectly references medicade study), stand up to unions
Kirk - pensions, medicade
Bill - pensions, medicade, state board of education
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:16 pm
“Governor’s Chief of Staff” Drink or not?
PS Kirk Quincy is not in Southern IL
Comment by Arthur Andersen Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:17 pm
Brady - Florida and Texas. really… tourism and oil and gas. that’s why they have 0% income tax. we don’t have that. you can’t compare Illinois to Florida and Texas along those lines, plus they are almost twice our size in population.
Comment by PoolGuy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:17 pm
softball questions just begging for press release responses… yawn (so far)
Comment by woodchuck Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:18 pm
Rauner on the minimum wage: “it’s a double-edged sword”
Comment by Precinct Captain Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:18 pm
Rauner wants to raise the minimum wage if we help the wealthy earn more as well. Because the wealthy are hurting!
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:18 pm
Brady - talks about tough votes, Medicaid, schools
Rauner -minimum wage…supports raising, with reforms, tort included. Max opportunity spin after
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:19 pm
Only drink on Edgar not COS
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:19 pm
Dillard: “Let the market set the upper limit of the minimum wage.”
What the heck does that mean?
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:20 pm
Did Rauner say half of the Medicaid recipients in Illinois are ineligible and shouldn’t be getting coverage?
Comment by 47th Ward Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:20 pm
Brady goes negative 20 minutes in!
Comment by Arthur Andersen Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:20 pm
not to snark, but Brady has the Nixon sweaty upper lip going. pull out the hanky when ur off camera guy…
Comment by PoolGuy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:21 pm
Dillard tries to go College Prof in explaining Min. Wage
Brady goes offense, Dillard and Rauner targeted, calling Rauner’s flip flop left handedly
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:22 pm
The last time the minimum wage was raised in Illinois, we lost jobs. - Brady
He forgot to mention that there was a recession in 2008 & 2009.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:23 pm
Drink!
Comment by Farker Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:23 pm
here it comes… running it like a business… salivation commencing in 3, 2, 1…
Comment by woodchuck Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:23 pm
Rutherford & Dillard are talking the talk about not having people live on a minimum wage, but how do they plan to actually slow the growth of low wage jobs and actually getting people into “good jobs”?
Comment by Precinct Captain Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:24 pm
Is it me or is Rutherford making up words?
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:24 pm
Edgar - drink!
Edgar - drink!
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:24 pm
Now we drink! twice! PS: Good question Amanda.
Comment by Arthur Andersen Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:24 pm
2 Edgar’s without a net.
Comment by Casual Observer Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:24 pm
I love it when candidates talk about the “marketplace” setting one thing or another.
The market they mean never seems to include workers organizing or government leaders leading, They mean businesses setting prices & wages and everyone else either taking it or leaving it.
Comment by Hans Sanity Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:24 pm
Here’s a question: What will you do if pension reform is found to be unconstitutional?
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:25 pm
“Democrat” - yikes, “Democratic”, please…
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:25 pm
Amanda. Bam
Comment by Soccermom Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:26 pm
I think Brady is by far being more articulate than any other candidate. And looks the part the best.
Comment by an innocent observer Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:27 pm
Hawks down by one…oh sorry wrong thread
Comment by out and about Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:28 pm
Rutherford - how do you define success at Corrections and IDOT? not the same as Treasurer’s office.
Comment by PoolGuy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:28 pm
Brady - visionary answer, flowery. At least a vision of where he wants to go.
Rutherford, wants to go Office Space and have the “2 Bills” look at government. Unapologetic for touting office
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:28 pm
Right as the debate started I answered my phone and did a survey for Democratic state rep in the primary, Berrios or Guzzardi. Statepoliticspalooza tonight.
Comment by Grandson of Man Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:30 pm
Mitch Daniels - Rauner, then naming other Govs in other states. Rauner knows IN is not IL, right?
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:30 pm
Rauner will not say: “I’ll streamline government the same way I streamlined a nursing home operation I took over.”
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:30 pm
Are there multiple minimum wages? How is there an upper and a lower, with the upper set by the “free market” come on Dillard.
Comment by Farker Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:31 pm
Executive Order to handle unions?
Wow, Rauner not understanding Guv’s Office
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:31 pm
Dan yields time?
Comment by Farker Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:32 pm
I’ll give this round to Brady. Rauner is terribly naive here. Rut-meh.
Comment by Arthur Andersen Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:32 pm
“Let me mention my opponents, mentioning me, but not mention them”
Comment by an innocent observer Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:33 pm
LOL, Rutherford surrendering time so the 3 stooges can keep after each other.
Comment by Precinct Captain Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:33 pm
Rutherford gives up mic.
Risky, but at this point, can’t hurt or help I guess
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:33 pm
Disparity in school funding…good question from the student!
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:34 pm
Apparently Brady is puzzled by the “market determining the upper limit of the minimum wage” as well.
Comment by drew Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:34 pm
Rauner: We need to send more on education…
OK…with what?
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:35 pm
@Farker, I think you are on the wrong site!
http://www.fark.com/ (I fark around too)
Comment by an innocent observer Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:35 pm
Suburban schools & funding,
Rauner “when my daughter went to Payton Prep…” (SNARK)
Clueless as to funding constraints, talking points ensue
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:35 pm
(spend) not send
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:36 pm
Rutherford - locals control decision on school funding, so then what?
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:37 pm
@Observer
I lurk here and there everyday lol
Comment by Farker Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:37 pm
Brady goes local too, but goes community college, and IL economy and “Lay-Zer”
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:38 pm
Willy the odds on Peyton Prep Clouting being brought up sir?
Comment by Farker Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:39 pm
Dillard goes “Chicago Characters” to make points
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:39 pm
4-1, evening money if others get to ask Qs of others
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:40 pm
When this began, my 11-year-old ripped one candidate for pronouncing the name of our state “Ellanoy.”
I won’t tell you which one.
Comment by Dave Dahl Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:40 pm
Why doesn’t Dan just talk about what he will do instead of keep yielding time, I don’t get it. He doesn’t have to go negative but at this point it’s just sort of weird.
Comment by Farker Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:40 pm
Rutherford defers to 2nd Half kickoff!
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:40 pm
“Even” money on Payton Prep sorry on spelling
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:41 pm
Why does Rutherford pass? Because the other guys keep promising to spend money and cut taxes. After a while, the math will catch up with them.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:41 pm
Does Brady want to bring back “Shop” class to high school?
Comment by Arthur Andersen Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:42 pm
One thing I noticed on the first question about the temp. tax increase–Rutherford said something like “I do not want the tax to stay, I do not want the tax to stay, I do not want the tax to stay.” He didn’t say that he would ensure that it expires. Sounds like he’s leaving the door open for a future “I didn’t want to extend the tax, but we had no other option”
Comment by drew Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:42 pm
@farker
Good stuff on both sites!
Comment by an innocent observer Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:42 pm
I personally hope someone hits him hard tonight with that and other recent developments
Comment by Farker Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:42 pm
Rauner promises to clout all students into the schools they want!
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:42 pm
Only 2 “Edgar”s… I guess that big bottle I bought might see tomorrow
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:42 pm
Wow, Rauner really is for corporate education. He wants companies on the ground shaping curriculum with local school districts.
Comment by Precinct Captain Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:43 pm
This is awful. I have to say that Brady definitely seems the most genuine. Dillard and Rauner sound like they just stepped out of the focus group.
Comment by Anon Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:43 pm
@ Pot
Agreed but why not pivot to your positives instead, I mean there not going to stop him from talking lol Hammer home the points again if need be.
Comment by Farker Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:44 pm
Rauner mentions wife and charter schools.
Maybe Rauner should have worn that Payton Prep t-shirt
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:44 pm
If we become energy self-sufficient by burning coal, the air will be just like in China. Sheesh.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:45 pm
All this talk of Fracking makes me thirsty for downstate water…
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:46 pm
Farker, I’m not saying it’s a good idea to pass, just trying to guess his logic.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:47 pm
Rutherford - not gonna be no more mr. nice guy i guess
Comment by PoolGuy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:47 pm
Rauner “strongly” believes. Wish I knew what he felt “weakly” about for equal time for adjectives.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:48 pm
Re: fracking rules/the chemical leak in West Virginia/drinking water in Southern Illinois with fracking going on
Brady: he’d drink the water
Dillard: he’d drink the water
Rutherford: he’d drink the water
Rauner: did not answer on the water
Comment by Precinct Captain Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:48 pm
Dan is thirsty
Comment by Pink E. Kent Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:48 pm
Most of the water in southern Illinois comes from municipal systems drawn from lakes. Fracking is a minimal threat to surface water.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:48 pm
here we go, Repubs on med marijauna. should be good
Comment by PoolGuy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:48 pm
Brady where in US constitution does it talk about weed?
Comment by PoolGuy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:49 pm
These guys should be for legalizing pot. It would be easier to convince people to vote for them if those voters were high.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:49 pm
I try to have a “Ski” in Breese if possible…so I would pass on water there.
“MM” - (grabs Cheetos, turns on “The Wall” on vinyl)
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:49 pm
Rauner: If I want some pot, I’ll just fly to Amsterdam!
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:51 pm
- 47th Ward -, now it’s all hazy, but it might be me..
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:51 pm
I love Ski much better than mountain dew or water
Comment by PoolGuy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:51 pm
Brady: the experts “police officers & doctors” led him to vote against medical marijuana. What docs? Seriously.
Rauner: “it’s a minor issue, it’s controversial.” Which is it? Most “controversial” things are not just a “minor issue.”
Comment by Precinct Captain Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:52 pm
Nursing Home? Tell us more, Dan-O.
Bruce, lack of focus in Springfield? Good luck with that.
Comment by Arthur Andersen Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:52 pm
Cannabis is not a distraction, Bruce.
Comment by Hans Sanity Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:52 pm
If IL is failing, it better be fundamentally…
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:52 pm
At least Dillard isn’t lying about listening to doctors by saying he only listened to police officers.
Comment by Precinct Captain Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:52 pm
and he clarifies!
Comment by an innocent observer Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:54 pm
Reminds me, call - Cincinnatus - to have lunch with Dillard, seems all the big wigs lunch with Dillard. Hope it’s at Manny’s
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:54 pm
these guys are letting Rauner off the hook so much after the past 2 weeks. wow. chicken out or what???
Comment by PoolGuy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:55 pm
Rauner goes to Dirksen - term limits, Dillard passes(?)
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:55 pm
I think Brady needs to have a word with the folks from LEAP.
Comment by Farker Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:55 pm
Everyone’s after corruption in elections. But nothing more is heard after the votes are cast.
Only the US Attorney’s office is the only part of government that removes the corrupt.
Comment by John Boch Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:55 pm
Brady talks “around” Clouting, waste of time to talk around
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:56 pm
Answer the question, Bruce!
Comment by John Boch Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:56 pm
Rauner: take away 3 regulations for everyone 1 new regulation
lol, so simplistic
Comment by Precinct Captain Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:57 pm
I’d like to fundamentally fundamentalize fundamentalification.
Comment by Hans Sanity Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:58 pm
Answer and question with a speech. Great.
Comment by John Boch Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:58 pm
3 for 1? So regulation reduction is at that clip, 2 more “fundamentally”s
Dillard mentions Tracy again, not a bad move
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:58 pm
Rauner can’t name one law he’d repeal?
Comment by 47th Ward Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:58 pm
Sure Bruce (and Kirk and Rutherford for that matter). Pathetic. Let’s be opposed to a law MANY other States have passed safely “not be distracted” by the THOUSANDS of fellow Illinoisans in SUFfering daily because they could benefit from EASing their pain by controlled use of MEDICAL marijuana…right!
Comment by Just The Way It Is One Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:58 pm
Dillard doesn’t want to repeal SSM????????
Comment by PoolGuy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:59 pm
Get rid of multiple cell phone taxes.
Comment by Hans Sanity Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:59 pm
Fundamentally, I am disappointed in only 2 Edgar mentions…
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:59 pm
Nice, Mr. Brady.
Comment by John Boch Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 7:59 pm
All going safe, no real fireworks
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:00 pm
I like Kirk Dillard, but he couldn’t even in the (R) nomination last time around…
Comment by John Boch Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:01 pm
Willy, I think “Jill Tracy” and “speed of business” have replaced “Edgar” as Dillard’s safe words.
Comment by 47th Ward Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:01 pm
Did Dillard just call Quincy “Southern Illinois”?
Comment by Illiana Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:02 pm
Why GOP Ballot? Dillard goes 2-fer of Thompson and Edgar “Social”!
Brady should hammer Dillard on “shoulda” crack
Brady goes “Lay-Zer” goes after and explains loss, I guess.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:02 pm
“Like a Laser”
Comment by an innocent observer Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:03 pm
- 47th Ward - think you are on to something
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:03 pm
…And lousy nursing homes?
Comment by John Boch Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:04 pm
Rauner - unique. Unique with Rahm vacations
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:04 pm
Is anyone gonna go after Rauner? Anyone?
Comment by Roamin' Numeral Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:06 pm
And Dillard goes for Rauner’s neck!
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:07 pm
Rauner getting a pass so far
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:07 pm
Bravo Kirk. Drip drip drip drip…
Comment by John Boch Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:07 pm
Dillard swipes…
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:08 pm
I’ve been to a world’s fair, a picnic and a rodeo, and I don’t understand how anyone can buy what Rauner is selling.
For the record, American homeowners lost nine trillion dollars in equity in the crash engineered by smart-asses like Rauner.
It’s not the one percent. It’s the point-one percent. They’re the ones robbing you blind.
Comment by wordslinger Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:08 pm
What the hell is Dillard talking about: “my strong downstate roots.”
Comment by Classico Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:08 pm
Fundamentally, Rauner took a hit, fundamentally
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:08 pm
Rauner, I don’t gamble, I don’t like gambling
unless it’s with TRS, that paid out pretty well
Comment by Farker Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:08 pm
Allow all the local voters to decide on casinos and gambling? Look out Nevada!
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:09 pm
Farmer Bruce has noticeably (uniquely?) started droppin’ the G’s in the last 10-15 minutes or so.
Comment by Arthur Andersen Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:09 pm
Rauner has by far the strongest message.
Brady is the best communicator.
Dillard and Rutherford are informed but hopelessly inside jargonish.
Comment by Classico Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:10 pm
drip drip drip
How many more bad business deals to come out Brucey?
Comment by truth hurts sometimes Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:10 pm
Ok, changing over to Tracy and speed of business to drink. Dust piling on the bottle.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:10 pm
@Word
Amen brother amen
Comment by Farker Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:10 pm
Bruce wants local gov’t to decide whether or not they want gambling.
How about recreational cannabis?
If the candidates want to help the IL racing industry, let them have slots at the tracks and pass ADW as a routine. ADW is not a handout.
Comment by Hans Sanity Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:11 pm
Rauner is fundamentally excited
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:11 pm
Living in the Governor’s mansion would be a downsizing for Millionaire Rauner.
Comment by truth hurts sometimes Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:12 pm
Rauner says he will live in Springfield, but are there enough condos and mansions there in addition to the governor’s mansion?
Comment by Precinct Captain Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:12 pm
lol, Rauner fundamentally explains pay to play, and exactly what Rauner touts as “Failing” - what a joke!
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:12 pm
Dillard - might actually live in the mansion
Brady - he might…promises to put his kids in Springfield school
Rutherford - most likely to actually live in the mansion - gets the idea of using the mansion
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:13 pm
I hope to get invited to the Mansion too
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:13 pm
Rutherford is right candidate, but he does use too many technical terms. How many people even know what “promulgate” means?
Comment by Illiana Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:14 pm
Rauner said he’s live in springfield, not the mansion.
A bigger mansion.
More modern, of course.
Comment by John Boch Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:14 pm
“Thompson” - drink…
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:14 pm
Took Brady 1 hr 15 min to mention his running mate. Dan and Bruce have yet to do so.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:15 pm
Brady mentions LG…
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:15 pm
Will any of the non-Rauner candidates be willing to use the Rauner homes to attract foreign business?
Comment by Hans Sanity Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:15 pm
Dan, isn’t there anything more important to talk about?
Comment by John Boch Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:16 pm
“As CEO of Illinois, Governor should live in the mansion…just like the CEO of CAT must live in Peoria”
Just like the CEO of ADM must live in Decatur?
Comment by drew Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:16 pm
I get the impression that Bruce is not afraid to solve problems.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:16 pm
Do people in Rockford, Quad Cities, Champaign, St. Louis metro east really care about how much time the governor spends in Springfield vs. Chicago?
Comment by Illiana Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:16 pm
Rauner I think forgot he has one(?) Dan is about Dan, understandable
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:16 pm
Bruce is complaining about the special interest that control government.
Who could he possibly mean?
Comment by Hans Sanity Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:17 pm
Medicaid - hot button. Rauner, wrong, corrupt, broken.
Rauner - Steal…hmmm
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:18 pm
Bruce Rauner on Medicaid: I can’t answer a specific cut for Medicaid, so I’ll just talk out of my ass.
Comment by Precinct Captain Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:18 pm
Good points by Dan on medicaid
Comment by Farker Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:18 pm
Rutherford - another veiled Nursing Home shot.
Brady - goes Cold War Reagan - “Verify”
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:19 pm
Dillard goes resume…
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:20 pm
Rauner, Government unions are bad rawrrrrr
Comment by Farker Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:21 pm
How exactly do “union bosses” benefit from ineligible medicare recipients? I do not see the connection.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:21 pm
Rauner: “government union bosses are blocking the studies” on Medicaid. lol, wut?
Comment by Precinct Captain Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:21 pm
Rauner goes transparent - the man who hides is campaign staff payroll, then goes Union talking points
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:21 pm
Hey, Dan — does an elderly couple have to burn up 100% of its assets if before one of them is eligible for medicaid?
And how will you make sure that the corp really need their state tax breaks? Will you be tough with them?
Comment by Hans Sanity Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:22 pm
Drew, I had that same thought lol.
Oh BS Kirk you did not “manage the Medicaid Program,”
and Medical Savings Accounts for poor people?
Comment by Arthur Andersen Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:23 pm
Amtrak - Dillard goes “young man” to start ball rolling, no funding w/o accountability.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:23 pm
Rauner: People still take the train? Who are these people?
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:23 pm
Softball back to Dillard again.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:24 pm
Rutherford talks about Amtrak delays, but those delays would be gone if Amtrak owned the tracks it runs on. Lol. He claims he’s thought about Amtrak a lot, but how does he not know that?
Dillard says Amtrak is the “life blood” to places like Quincy & Champaign, etc. Again, lol. The train runs about 3 times a day out of Champaign. Not much life considering 74 & 57 & 72 are running 24/7.
Comment by Precinct Captain Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:24 pm
Oh boy, closings
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:25 pm
Lock and Dams, Bruce?
Sorry, they are under federal control
Comment by truth hurts sometimes Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:25 pm
Tracy - Drink, Drink
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:26 pm
Way to duck that Amtrak question Bruce
Comment by Arthur Andersen Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:26 pm
ain’t that Rauner’s like 5th “number one most important”
Comment by Pink E. Kent Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:26 pm
Rauner’s public/private partnership to get investment for state infrastructure means IL will pay Rauner’s partners premium interest rates on $$ borrowed.
Bruce’s excitement is getting dangerously close to the fundamental fight.
Bruce never made a buck from gubbermint.
Comment by Hans Sanity Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:26 pm
Rauner - “Excited”, talking points. Speaking way too fast
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:27 pm
All the candidates are better than their ads.
Comment by Hans Sanity Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:29 pm
Thought Brady looked the worst. What a dud. “Pick me because I ran last time and lost, but only by a little.”
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:30 pm
Ok Unions, Rauner calls you out!
No “Slip and Sue”, now Steve Kim mentioned.
Stop yelling, Dan - “I’m not yelling ”
Counties don’t vote, Bill.., Yikes, mentions LG, “Slip and Sue” to sue Bruce for forgetting her, just wait,
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:30 pm
Why was Rutherford shouting in his close? Reminded me of Steve Carrell’s character in Anchorman.
Comment by 47th Ward Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:30 pm
Does Rauner think as governor he can repeal the Illinois Public Labor Relations Act via executive order?
That reference to executive orders/Mitch Daniels/and “government union bosses” in his final statement makes me wonder.
Comment by hisgirlfriday Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:31 pm
When they asked Rauner if he would live in the Governor’s mansion, he should have done a spit take and said “That little thing?”
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:32 pm
@FakeSlip&Sue - Bruce, see you in court, I will teach you to forget ME #FellUnderRaunerSpell
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:32 pm
Thought Dan’s closing was pretty strong. I don’t care for the yelling, maybe it’s just passion coming out as angry.
Comment by Farker Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:32 pm
“C” across the boards.
Rauner wins the day, Carhartt still clean
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:33 pm
@47thWard - I thought Rutherford was shouting in his close also. Which really did not go well with his “reasonable Republican” argument. I think Rauner just gets so under his skin he can’t control his emotions.
Comment by hisgirlfriday Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:34 pm
Unions - Remo is asking… Why take a chance?
Rauner wants you guys, you going to let him get past March… easily?
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:35 pm
Rutherford, (Yelling) I. Am. Reasonable!
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:36 pm
And the AA scores for those who care:
Fourth: Dillard. Platitudinous and pithy.
Third: Rauner: I’m so excited. Not.
Second: Rutherford: Cold until the last second.
First: Brady: Because someone has to be first.
Comment by Arthur Andersen Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:39 pm
Good points being made by the SIU reporter about the lack of attention given to the event.
None of the candidates motivated me enough to crossover from Dem or Green to vote against Rauner.
I have voted in a GOP once in 4 decades.
Comment by Hans Sanity Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:40 pm
Too bad Rutherford saved his excitement for the last 60 seconds, but great “save” mentioning Kim and living the American Dream. Overall, Rauner seemed more strategic but with no specificity. Brady nailed the question on repealing the income tax increase. Dillard seemed, well, like Dillard. Rauner’s vagueness at this point of the campaign seemed like lack of research and having concrete examples. Give Brady credit -rightly or wrongly- on naming ISBE as an example of something he would change. Rutherford and Rauner (cringing as I even type Rauner) came across as the two most likely to go forward. Wish Dan would have talked more about other parts of the state, although the forgotten reference of returning more dollars to the pockets than his predecessor (ICash) should have been played up more. Giving more people their money instead of taking more money. Rauner’s flippant talk of making education, er, wait, jobs, er, wait, education, the most important priority seemed waffling. Brady stayed on message, but looked stiff in the delivery.
Comment by woodchuck Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:40 pm
Dillard because he inspires trust; Rauner because he does not.
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:43 pm
Farker, I’ve about had it today with this Rauner guy. Creeps me out.
It’s very cold, but I’m warmed by the smile of Pope Francis. And I’m inspired by the life of Saint Francis.
Can you dig it? Saint Francis? My kids are old, I’m in my third act. Before I check out, I will aspire to Francis.
I’m not Catholic. I understand our politics are quite different. But Pope Francis is a game-changer, a truth-teller. A giant, all of a sudden.
He makes me happy to be a hunan being. JPII called out godless communism. Francis calls out godless capitalism
By godless capitalism, I mean the assholes like Ayn Rand and her disciples like Alan Greenspan and Rauner, who would sacrifice generations to poverty in service of a theory.
Shame on you.
I think Francis is the goods. I’m with him, till the last dog dies.
Comment by wordslinger Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:44 pm
Sorry. That should have been 1st and 4th places.
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:44 pm
CapFax gets a mention from the commentators!
Comment by drew Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:46 pm
If you’re not watching the after analysis, your loss. Chris Mooney and Amanda Vinicky are fantastic!
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:46 pm
Drink every time Rauner says he’s “excited”!!!
Comment by truth hurts sometimes Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:47 pm
I agree. They’re doing a great job.
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:47 pm
lol Rutherford’s closing statement “most demonstrative.”
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:48 pm
Scored it - Rauner 1st, The “3″, Last.
No harm, no fouls, no pressure on Rauner for his remarks.
Will see how it plays with tomorrow’s eyes
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:48 pm
Rauner looked pale and gaunt, not nearly as handsome as the makeup and lighting in his TV ads make him appear.
I would have thought Brady would have seen an orthodontist about his canine teeth in the past four years but apparently not. Maybe that’s why he doesn’t smile as much.
Rutherford just comes across as a Boy Scout, earnest as can be, but woefully unprepared for the hardball nature of the job. Likeable? Yes. Electable? I don’t see it.
Dillard looks more and more like the Rev. Jerry Fawell every time I see him. If he wins the nomination, he ought to go all Dan Walker and get himself out of the car, off the coach and on his feet. Play 60 Kirk, you’re larger than life and it isn’t healthy.
But then I’m pretty superficial when it comes to judging debates.
Comment by 47th Ward Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:49 pm
Can’t get the “after” stuff, hope Rich can post that tomorrow
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:49 pm
Hmm…I’m just watching at http://wtvp.org/programming/debate/6-1401.asp
Comment by drew Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:51 pm
Yikes, just missed it! Thanks for the link
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:55 pm
The on-line radio presentation made it possible to listen and read comments here while watching the muted video now and then.
Comment by Hans Sanity Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 8:58 pm
A couple things stood out.
Rutherford giving up the mic as he didn’t need to clarify what he says, then the next question he mixes up (It was income/property tax, not sales/property tax funding for schools).
There wasn’t enough dirty. Someone pointed out the flipflop on the minimum wage for Rauner. It was far too tame. I wanted a fistfight or a wild west gun battle or an epic shouting match. I didn’t get any of those.
#1: Brady
#2: Rauner+Rutherford
#4: Dillard
But that might as well mean Rauner won, because it wasn’t impressive.
Comment by Timmeh Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 9:08 pm
The question remains, at the end of the day, where is Rauner’s moral compass?
I’ve been around the block a few times, I was born and have lived in Illinois all my life. I’m old and not stupid. Rauner is a punk.
Fast Eddie and Burke were choir boys compared to him. Maybe that’s why Kass loves him.
Comment by wordslinger Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 9:20 pm
- wordslinger -,
Once the money people saw that the Bedrock Republicans lost My Party, and that Dopey extremist can win using the Tea Party as a cover, Rauner, and like minded souls see My Party “For Sale” and unapologetically, they are buying the credibility that would not be afforded to Rauner under a real GOP party apparatus as of the late 80s early 90s.
Rauner is the Lead from Broadcast News, and My Party is surrendering.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 9:27 pm
Agree with Wordslinger. I spent my first 33 years in Illinois, the last 10 in the trenches in Springfield, from research staff, JCAR and 4 years in lobbying role. I can spot phoniness and Rauner is phony, but to the untrained eye - a person watching the show with no Springfield experience- Rauner seems plausible. I too was disappointed a little there were wasn’t more excitement and someone willing to take on Rauner. Brady made a few references. Dan nibbled on it with nursing home references and Dillard,well, was Dillard. Insiders were hoping for a knock-out punch and there wasn’t one tonight. Rauner got an undeserved pass out of diplomacy tonight. It wasn’t a red meat event but give the 4 credit for staying on message for the most part. The next three weeks are critical for separation.
Comment by woodchuck Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 9:33 pm
- wordslinger -,
Yeah, “Fail-Safe”, great stuff… And Lugar, we can’t repay his service with just a “thanks”. Bad form thinking Lugar is not what the GOP and America needs.
Larry Hangman and Walter Matthau too. “Fail-Safe”
I think My Party flew over its “Fail-Safe” checkpoint, and Rauner might be the result.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 9:35 pm
- woodchuck -,
Rauner is counting on passes until the “2PACS” try, and he can, again, try to steal that narrative of “Union Bosses fear me”.
I was disappointed too. Hope for some signs of a “fire and fight” from the “3″ but got a “yelled” close, nibbling, and Rauner didn’t even feel compelled to say anything about “Slip and Sue”
You pay the piper, you call the tune. The “3″ are dancing Rauner’s tune, to their own defeats.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 9:41 pm
Very well said, word and others. Rauner is the ultimate “winner” here if all of his on-and off-stage “Baloney” goes unrefuted. The guy who is gonna Shake Up Springfield can’t name one new law or one he would kill off. What a fail for the 3.
Comment by Arthur Andersen Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 9:50 pm
I’m with Willie and Woodchuck. In case you missed it, I’m really down on Ratuner.
I’m old-school Main Street. Proud of it. Detassled corn. Shoveled snow. Cut grass. Illinois boy.
Rauner and Emanuel are the worst. They’re egomaniacs. They don’t give a damn about the folks.
Give me JBT any day. That Riverside lady is the goods, and would be a whale of a governor.
Comment by wordslinger Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 10:01 pm
A-men, word. JBT is the real thing. She had that office stolen right out from under her by millions in dirty contributions and never got down in the mud.
Comment by Arthur Andersen Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 10:14 pm
The “3″ have had way before State Fair to define Rauner in the Bedrock GOP circles, and now the avalanche of paid media is ready to engulf … the houses of straw or sticks and even the unattained dreams…of the “3″. They have been out flanked, so far, and now must hope others can save one of them, and My Party.
Tonight was not a good recovery.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 10:17 pm
I don’t think any amount of “defining” by the three would have gotten much traction. Rauner is willing to lay down serious cash and money talks. Rauner is the ultimate self-funded candidate; based on even the most expensive scenarios, he can bury his opponents. The only hope for any of the three is some very bad, very public revelations in the last few weeks before the election. Until then, all Bruce has to do is talk about how “excited” he is to be governor and buy ad after ad telling the everyone whatever they want to hear.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 10:26 pm
===Give me JBT any day. That Riverside lady is the goods, and would be a whale of a governor.===
You are spot on. There is a reason Comptroller Topinka is beloved; she is real, she is genuine, and she is all about Illinois. Comptroller Topinka cares, and it shows, every day.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Jan 23, 14 @ 10:27 pm
Willy- I have sent my personal email to my candidate explaining where he needs to focus and attack. Like Wordslinger, I have done the Illinois manual labor, delivered papers, baled hay, worked on a hog farm, and maintained my high school as a job during the summers to make money as a poor kid. I value hard work. Rutherford gets that message and himself did similar work as a kid to pull his boot straps up to get through college. We heard 10 seconds of that tonight but it’s not enough. The voters respond to people who work hard and made it despite their odds. They vote for people who have like them, struggling to make it. Rauner’s “struggling” will never resonate but it takes money and ads to make that distinction. They were all 4 so cordial, for the most part, tonight, calling each other by first names - except Dillard. It was too “nice” of a debate this close to sealing the deal. The other 3 are afraid of the attack ads that follow unrelentlessly until the March vote. Rauner said enough tonight to be tied to at least $3B in new spending with no concrete or specific examples of how to save that money on top of income tax extension or pension ideas. Just fluff… Insiders know the distinction but those in the crowd, that’s who I’m worried about and their influence on the vote.
Comment by woodchuck Friday, Jan 24, 14 @ 12:19 am
OK. I took a bit different approach; skipped the live broadcast, read something like 226 comments here, then watched the video with my wife.
Wearing my “insider” hat:
Rauner, Brady and Dillard all came off as having scripted talking points, and they did their best to pivot to those talking points when answering the questions. Rutherford came across as actually answering the question off the cuff.
Also, with understanding of some of the issues, Rutherford seemed to be the one giving the more thoughtful and honest answers. And, to me (and I was looking for it after reading the comments) Rutherford came off more as passionate than yelling in his closing.
No one seemed to directly attack Rauner; at best there were a couple of tangential attacks on Rauner that probably went over the heads of most of the general public.
I appreciated that the income tax and pension questions got asked but a pension fall-back solution was pretty much ducked by all the candidates. At least we know some of the questioners have been reading comments here on CapFax.
Taking the “insider hat” off and looking at it with uninformed public eyes, Rauner came across with the best bunch of reasonable sounding responses that hit all the proper buzzwords (what an insider would call the best line of BS for public consumption). Rauner also appears to be the tallest candidate which some studies show is an edge.
From an insider viewpoint, Rutherford won. From the public viewpoint, they probably thought Rauner won.
Comment by RNUG Friday, Jan 24, 14 @ 12:38 am
My first thought at the end was that all four of them did well. My second thought was that the other three will get few opportunities to fire at Rauner, and they just let one pass by.
Brady was by far the smoothest, throwing out the best phrasing, but almost too smooth. He can sound canned at times. But he showed a lot of substantive knowledge and I thought he did the best job.
Dan Rutherford also showed substantive knowledge, but pulled his punches, and did not want to get pinned down, especially in the first half. He showed great fire at the end – and I do think that is the real Dan Rutherford, who is a much tougher guy than many suppose - but he should have sprinkled that through the evening, not saved it for the finale.
Kirk Dillard looked much better than I have seen in the past. Someone has been working hard with him. I found him effective. He was very down to earth, and came across as an experienced legislator, for good or ill.
Rauner came across well personally, but only used big talk, throwing out generality after generality. One can only go so far with that until the listener begins to conclude that there is little else. He gave away a couple of subtle things, such as seemingly supporting “local control” of a Chicago casino. Isn’t that what Rahm Emanuel wants? What Republican would ever, ever want to allow it?
Comment by Percival Friday, Jan 24, 14 @ 12:52 am
And here’s Mrs. RNUG’s summation of the debate (slightly edited): The whole thing was a joke. … That Rauner has a line of horse droppings a mile long.
Comment by RNUG Friday, Jan 24, 14 @ 12:53 am
Meantime, in a living room in the Metro East, Jason Plummer can be heard calling out to the kitchen: “Daddy, Daddy! You told me you were going to get ME a place on that stage! Did you forget to turn in the paperwork or something??”
Comment by Steve Downstate Friday, Jan 24, 14 @ 1:33 am
4 good men. Too bad no matter which one wins, will end up losing in November. I commend them all for trying though.
Comment by Tholian Friday, Jan 24, 14 @ 3:06 am
- woodchuck -,
We can do only what we can do.
I think the “3″ forgot they are not on TV, have no radio Ads, and will be dark for quite some time it appears.
Good on you for sending an Email. The clock is ticking, do the “3″ hear it?
Comment by Oswego Willy Friday, Jan 24, 14 @ 7:08 am
Maybe none of the three wanted to make Bruce mad for fear he would dump some negative ads on them. They want to stay in the game in the hopes that Bruce will flame out.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Friday, Jan 24, 14 @ 9:18 am